Internet Security Alert removal instructions

What is Internet Security Alert?

"Internet Security Alert" is a fake error message similar to Microsoft Warning Alert, Ransomware Detected, Warning: Hyper-V Manager, and many others. This error is displayed by malicious websites that users often visit inadvertently - they are redirected by potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) that infiltrate systems without consent. As well as causing redirects, PUPs stealthily run unwanted processes, deliver malicious ads, and record various user-system information.

"Internet Security Alert" claims that the system is infected with a number of viruses and, for this reason, private information (banking details, logins/passwords, stored data, etc.) is at risk. It goes on to state that these viruses must be eliminated immediately. Victims are encouraged to contact Windows Technical Support via a toll-free telephone number ("(866) 564-0233") provided. They are then supposedly guided through the malware removal process. As mentioned above, "Internet Security Alert" error is fake. It is a scam and has nothing to do with Microsoft. Criminals attempt to generate revenue by claiming to be certified technicians and demanding payment for support. Furthermore, these people often demand remote access to the caller's computer then install malware and/or change system settings. Criminals then claim to "find" even more issues and offer their help for additional fees. For these reasons, never attempt to call the aforementioned telephone number. The "Internet Security Alert" error can be removed simply by closing the web browser or rebooting the system (some websites use scripts that prevent users from closing the browser). As mentioned above, potentially unwanted programs (and malicious websites) stealthily perform various background tasks (such as mining cryptocurrency). This misuse of system resources can result in a significant reduction in overall performance. In addition, PUPs often deliver various malvertising ads that conceal underlying content (thereby significantly diminishing the browsing experience), and might also redirect to malicious websites, or even execute scripts that download and install malware. Therefore, clicking them risks serious computer infections. Potentially unwanted programs also record various data that might contain personal details. This data is sold to third parties for marketing purposes. These actions are performed only to generate revenue. PUPs pose a direct threat to your privacy and especially Internet browsing safety. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you uninstall them immediately.

Free scanner checks if your computer is infected. To remove malware, you have to purchase the full version of Spyhunter.

The Internet is full of potentially unwanted programs that share many similarities. All claim to provide "useful features" (such as VPN services, image optimization, media play, etc.), however, these false claims are merely attempts to give the impression of legitimacy. In fact, only a small fraction of PUPs provide the functions promised. Most are useless for regular users. They are designed only to generate revenue for the developers. Rather than providing the functions promised, these rogue programs promote suspicious websites (by causing unwanted redirects), diminish system performance, deliver malicious ads (via the "Pay Per Click" advertising model), and gather user-system information.

How did adware install on my computer?

Research shows that some PUPs have official download/promotion websites, however, criminals also proliferate them via a deceptive marketing method called "bundling" (stealth installation of third party programs together with regular software/apps), and via the aforementioned malicious ads. Developers do not reveal details of bundled program installation - they conceal this information within various sections (usually the "Custom/Advanced" settings) of the download/installation processes. Rushing the download/installation processes (by skipping steps) and clicking ads exposes systems to risk of various infections and compromises your privacy.

How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?

The key to computer safety is caution. Therefore, pay close attention when downloading/installing software and browsing the Internet in general. Carefully analyze each window of the download/installation dialogs to opt-out of all additionally-included programs. Bear in mind that cyber criminals monetize third party download/installation tools using bundling (they promote third party software). Therefore, we strongly advise you to avoid using such tools - your software should be downloaded only from official/certified sources, using a direct download link. Criminals invest a great deal of time and resources into designing malicious ads. Therefore, most appear genuine, however, they often redirect to survey, adult dating, gambling, pornography, and other suspicious sites. If you encounter such ads, immediately check the list of installed apps/browser plug-ins and removeany suspicious entries. Poor knowledge of these threats and rushing steps are the main reasons for computer infections.

Another variant of this scam with a red background, cyber criminals are using +61-1800-431-245 phone number:

This virus is well known for complete identity and credit card theft. Further action through this computer or any computer on this network will reveal private information and involve serious risks.

Call Windows Technical Support: (866) 564-0233 (Toll Free)

Instant automatic removal of Internet Security Alert virus:Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced computer skills. Spyhunter is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of Internet Security Alert virus. Download it by clicking the button below:▼ DOWNLOAD SpyhunterBy downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Free scanner checks if your computer is infected. To remove malware, you have to purchase the full version of Spyhunter.

Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Click the Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "More tools" and click "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons, select these entries and click the trash can icon.

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the "internet security alert" virus, reset your Google Chrome browser settings. Click the Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome) and select Settings. Scroll down to the bottom of the screen. Click the Advanced… link.

After scrolling to the bottom of the screen, click the Reset (Restore settings to their original defaults) button.

In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Google Chrome settings to default by clicking the Reset button.

Remove malicious add-ons from Microsoft Edge:

Click the three horizontal dots icon (at the top right corner of Microsoft Edge), select "Extensions". Look for any recently-installed suspicious extensions, right click your mouse on these entries and click "Uninstall".

Optional method:

Click the three horizontal dots icon (at the top right corner of Microsoft Edge), and select Settings.

In the opened tab, click the "Choose what to clear" button.

Click Show more and select everything, and then click the "Clear" button.

If this didn't help, please follow these alternative instructions explaining how to reset Microsoft Edge browser.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter to stay informed about the latest online security threats.

Our malware removal guides are free. However, if you want to support us you can send us a donation.

A QR code (Quick Response Code) is a machine-readable code which stores URLs and other information. This code can be read using a camera on a smartphone or a tablet. Scan this QR code to have an easy access removal guide of "Internet Security Alert" virus on your mobile device.